Numbers 15:7

Numbers 15:7 specifies a component of the ancient Israelite sacrificial system: the drink offering, a libation of wine, to accompany certain animal sacrifices. This particular verse details the quantity of wine required when offering a ram, emphasizing the precise nature of worship commanded by God.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Numbers 15 (verses 1-16) where God provides instructions to Moses regarding offerings that the Israelites were to observe once they entered the Promised Land. These laws were supplementary to those given in Leviticus, detailing the proper grain and drink offerings that were to accompany burnt offerings and peace offerings of specific animals. The inclusion of these additional offerings ensured a complete and holistic act of worship, signifying the worshipper's full dedication and gratitude to the LORD. It's a reminder that worship involved careful adherence to divine commands, preparing them for a settled life of devotion in Canaan.

Key Themes

• Prescribed Worship: The meticulous details about quantities and types of offerings highlight God's desire for worship to be conducted according to His specific instructions, not human preference.
• Completeness of Offering: The drink offering, along with the grain offering and the animal sacrifice, formed a complete package, symbolizing a full dedication of resources and life to God. This comprehensive approach underscored the idea of offering one's best and all that one has.
• Divine Acceptance: The phrase "sweet savour unto the LORD" (Hebrew: reah nihoah) is a recurring motif in sacrificial laws (see Leviticus 1:9), signifying God's acceptance and pleasure in the offering when it was presented properly and with the right heart.

Linguistic Insights

The term "drink offering" is translated from the Hebrew word nesek (נֶסֶךְ), which refers to something poured out, specifically a libation. This act of pouring out wine symbolized devotion and commitment. The phrase "sweet savour" (Hebrew: reah nihoah) literally means "a soothing aroma" or "a pleasing odor." It conveys the idea that the offering, when presented in obedience and faith, brought satisfaction and delight to God. This concept is later applied to Christ's sacrifice, which is described as a "sweet smelling savour" to God (Ephesians 5:2).

Practical Application

While the specific sacrificial laws of the Old Covenant are no longer practiced today due to Christ's ultimate sacrifice (Hebrews 9:26), the principles behind them remain relevant. Numbers 15:7 reminds us:

• Intentional Worship: Our worship should be intentional, thoughtful, and offered with a spirit of obedience and reverence. It's not just about grand gestures but also about the details and consistency.
• Giving Our Best: The prescribed quantities and quality of offerings encouraged the Israelites to give their best to God. Similarly, believers today are called to offer their lives as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), dedicating their time, talents, and resources to His glory.
• God's Delight in Obedience: Just as the physical offerings were a "sweet savour" to the LORD, our acts of obedience and heartfelt devotion are pleasing to Him. As stated in 1 Samuel 15:22, "to obey is better than sacrifice."